NSW Government announces appointment of Murrumbidgee project officer

Media release | 29 November 2018

The NSW Government has today announced the appointment of Mr David Leslie to the position of Principal Project Officer Lands & Water Division with responsibility for the Murrumbidgee Sustainable Diversion Limit Adjustment Mechanism (SDLAM) program.

Mr Leslie’s first undertaking in his new role will be a significant community consultation on the Murrumbidgee Program, including the proposed project to improve flow management in the Yanco Creek system, beginning later this month.

Minister for Regional Water Niall Blair said the appointment of Mr Leslie to this newly created role is testament to the government’s commitment to securing the future of the region.

“With over twenty years’ experience in water management, David is the right person for the job. He knows the region, he understands localwater issues, and I know he is firmly committed to engaging heavily with the community.

“The NSW Government recognises the pivotal role that water plays in regional prosperity and long-term growth of communities. We are focusing on real and pressing issues, and taking a forward-thinking approach to ensuring regional communities will thrive through smart investment in water infrastructure.

“David Leslie’s appointment is a significant step towards working more collaboratively with the Murrumbidgee community.”

Former General Manager of Murray Catchment Management Authority, and most recently Executive Manager of Murray Irrigation, Mr Leslie has significant water experience and will be focusing in the immediate term on the Yanco project.

Commenting on his recent appointment and the upcoming community consultations, Mr Leslie said, “I feel honoured to be given such a significant role, and one that goes to the heart of what I believe in; securing the future of our most remote communities through smart water infrastructure. I am looking forward to consulting closely with the community to secure positive outcomes for the environment and the community.

“It is important to note that works at Yanco Creek are currently under consideration only. It is absolutely not a done deal. We should, and will, engage heavily with locals on this and other projects throughout the design and implementation processes.

The Yanco Creek flow management project is a proposal currently under development as part of the Murray Darling Basin Plan’s Sustainable Diversion Limit Adjustment Mechanism (SDLAM) program

Consultation on the project is expected to commence in early December 2018.